A traditional sail off the camp beach, crewed by the village.
A dhow is the lateen-sailed wooden boat that has worked this coast for centuries, and the ones off Saadani are still working boats crewed by the village. You sail off the camp beach with them.
Where you go depends on the tide. When it is right, the sail can take you out towards the Mafui sandbank, a white bar of sand about five kilometres offshore that only exists at low water.
What the sail is like
- A traditional rig, crewed by people from the neighbouring village.
- The whole boat is yours: no other guests aboard.
- On a good tide, the Mafui sandbank — coral reef, clear water and the park’s best snorkelling.
- Dolphins are seen off this coast, and humpback whales pass during the migration months.
Worth knowing before you book
- The price is per dhow, not per person.
- The tide decides the route and the hour. The crew decides whether it sails at all.
- If you want it at sunset with drinks aboard, book the sunset dhow cruise instead.
Where it happens
Mafui sandbank, in the park’s marine zone
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What it costs
| Private dhow | US$250 | per dhow · includes 4 |
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Park entry fee
This one happens at the camp. No park entry fee applies.
How it is paid
Add it to your day on the experiences page. Cterra confirms times and availability within 24 hours, and only then does a payment link arrive. Nothing is charged when you ask.
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